New Year, Same Me

Its that time of the year again— people will be setting “resolutions” that they hope to achieve to improve relationships with others, themselves, their finances, careers, etc. Often times these resolutions are set with the best intentions in mind but fall short due to unrealistic expectations and the day-to-day life pressures that result in resolutions falling off the list of priorities. Then we find ourselves disappointed, frustrated, and down on ourselves, only to start the cycle all over again the next January 1st.

I used to be a big resolutions guy. I was intimately familiar with the cycle I just outlined above (especially the part where I got down on myself— old friends). I certainly believe in goal setting and having something to work towards— thats part of the foundation of the type of therapy I do— and I’ve come to see the impact that these unrealistic goals have had on my mental health and my relationship with myself. I don’t think its about not having goals, but rather, how we approach the setting and achievement of them that makes the difference.

I not only teach this to my patients but also actively use this in my own life. I set what are called SMART Goals.

SMART Goals are Specific, Meaningful, Adaptive, Realistic, and Time-Framed. They help you to have a clear path to success and a point of accountability to increase the likelihood you’ll achieve them! Download my Goal Setting PDF here and start achieving your goals today!